Description: Until recently, the formula for success for media and entertainment companies was very clear: multiple revenue streams, limited distribution outlets, and exploitation of current trends and niche genres. Today, the disruption brought about by new technologies, new distribution platforms including online and mobile, changing consumer behavior and a growing, more globalized market represents significant opportunities for incumbent media companies and has provided ground for the emergence of new players, pushing companies to innovate and adapt their strategies, capabilities, and operating models. International markets are playing an unprecedented role in the industry and its future, specifically in developing markets such as Latin America. Although its economic growth has slowed, the region has been a key international market for the media and entertainment industry. Expansion of the middle class has created a new consumer class that not only possesses greater purchasing power but also an appetite for premium products and experiences. An increasing U.S.-Hispanic population makes Latin America a more attractive market than ever before. Both markets are benefiting from increased collaboration in creative development, technological innovation and cultural exchange. Panelists will share their experience in understanding current developments in the U.S.-Latin American cross-border media and entertainment industry, as well as highlight their observations and predictions on future areas of innovation and collaboration, growth opportunities and challenges ahead.

Description: In recent years, entrepreneurs, in collaboration with mature companies and governments have been responsible for disrupting many traditional industries by bringing innovative products and services to the market. To return to faster growth rates without running the risk of jeopardizing recent economic and social advancements, Latin America is addressing structural weaknesses, diversifying its economies and closing the productivity gap. Extracting more value from natural resources by applying innovation and technology will be an important part of Latin America’s future in order to improve its competitive position in the global marketplace. Based on the region’s expanding middle class, young demographics, and fast adoption of technology – conditions are ripe for change. The region needs to develop new businesses, in industry and services, initiate productive development policies to foster new enterprises and diversify its exports. If Latin America takes steps to encourage innovation, the region’s economies are likely to be the drivers rather than merely the recipients of this transformation. What new industries will take over from commodities? What role will technology and innovation play and what can be done to increase the pace of innovation in the region? How can Latin American countries promote the growth of startups and small and medium-sized enterprises? What role, if any, should governments play in fostering innovation and supporting entrepreneurship? Should Latin America spend more on research and development? What role will private investment play? Panelists will address these questions and share their thoughts on the role that entrepreneurship will play in the growth of Latin American business, and how innovation can be supported. They will discuss the opportunities, challenges and implications for companies that are seeking to increase their footprint in the region, as well as strategies that Latin American businesses are pursuing to go global.

Description: Over the last few decades, Latin America has made great advancements. However, the region is now thinking carefully about its future and return to stronger economic growth. Without running the risk of jeopardizing recent economic and social gains, Latin America is diversifying its industries and exports beyond commodities promoting economic growth and enhancing innovation, productivity and competitiveness. With a slowdown in the region's trade and declining investment in the region's economies, financial markets have responded with a depreciation of the region's main currencies. How does Latin America diversify its economy and exports in global markets? What role will trade agreements and intra-regional trade play in greater economic growth? What new industries will take over from commodities? Will Latin America be able to navigate the populist pressures, and continue its path of growth and inequality reduction? Panelists will forecast what is to come and share their views on how the financial markets see the region's prospects as Latin America considers its future and returns to stronger economic growth; diversifies its industries and exports beyond commodities; stimulates innovation and technology advancement; leverages trade integration; and continues in its social transformation for sustainable, inclusive growth?